SnowPost March 2017

FREE MARCH 2017 ISSUE

YOUR ONLY LOCALLY OWNED AND PRODUCED SNOWY MONARO REGION TOURIST MAGAZINE

showcasing the snowy monaro region

2

this AUTUMN

Take your fun to a higher plain

CHECK OUT PAGE 34 FOR ALL THE INFO ON THE PEAK FESTIVAL AT PERISHER

Contents...

24.

4.

4. egg-cellent easter fairs

6. thredbo jazz festival 23.

13.

10. lake light sculpture

13. capturing our night skies 10.

35.

6.

23.

CRIME THROUGH TIME IN COOMA

24. “man from snowy river� experience

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UNDERGROUND SPIRITS

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What’s Happening RIGHT NOW KEEP UP TO DATE WITH THE LATEST EVENTS HAPPENING FROM MARCH TO JUNE

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Egg-cellent Easter Fairs

Adaminaby Easter Fair

including the CWA, the Red Cross, Craft Group, Fishing Club, Snowy Scheme Museum, Mens & The popular Adaminaby Easter Fair is on Easter Womens Bowlers, the Golf Course Trust and the Adaminaby Public School P & C. Saturday 9am to 3pm.

All in all, the Adaminaby Easter Fair will definitely The Easter Fair is “A Day for the Family to Enjoy” be a “Day the All the Family Will Enjoy”! with over 60 market stalls, plus community group fundraising stalls, exhibits, raffles, competitions and events to entertain all comers.

Berridale Easter Fair Musical entertainment on the day will be provided

by Jay Podger.

The Lion’s Easter Fair in Berridale is shaping up to Activities will start with the Easter Bonnet Parade, Dog High Jump, Easter Egg Toss, Roster call, which be another fantastic event this year.

The Lions Easter Fair is held annually on Easter honorus the Chinese Year of the Rooster.

Saturday and is a fun day of family entertainment, as The Tug of War for adults and children, Pie eating well as an opportunity to raise much needed funds for for adults, Watermelon eating for children and the the community.

Adaminaby P & C Wood Auction. After lunch, a new The fair was a great success in 2015, donating event in an Easter theme - Egg Tossing.

Trout Tossing will be a hit with the kids. The $1000 to Berridale OOSCH, $1000 to the Operation penultimate event of the day is a visit by the Easter Christmas Child, and supporting the Dalgety Ladies Day. Bunny bearing chocolate eggs for all.

The Lion’s Easter Fair also serves as an opportunity The last and most highly anticipated event on the for other organisations to raise money, with groups day is the Wacky Quacky Duck Race, with 1250 ducks such as are the CWA, SES, RFS, Marine Rescue, “racing” under Adaminaby in the storm water drain. the local schools, 2MNO community radio and the The Adaminaby School of Arts Memorial Hall will Historical Society having been present in the past. be open all day for a special viewing of the “Stage A big focus this year in on children and the Lions Curtain”, the curtain was crafted by community members and is a spectacular and vibrant jaw Club is planning a competition using the skatepark in the park for this. dropping artwork.

Berridale Lions Club president Drew King said the The Snowy Scheme Museum will be open from club was very keen to get more children involved in all 10am. the activities.

Aside from being a great fun day, the Easter Fair is Having run since 1974, the event has established also a major fundraising day for the wider community itself as a big part of Berridale’s annual calendar and with money being raised by various local groups, it is bigger than ever.

This year’s fair will again focus on the Aitchison Cottage, a 19th century building that is an important part of Berridale’s history.

One of the main attractions of the fair will focus around the cottage, featuring a display containing photos and information on the restoration that is being carried out on the building.

Restorations are continuing well on the cottage and the organising committee will have the cottage open as well as offering billy tea and damper.

These include a variety of different flavours, all cooked in the traditional way and all served with yummy butter.

For the kids, the focus will also be on a visit from the Easter Bunny, jumping castles and an Easter egg hunt, which is always one of the biggest draw cards to the fair.

As the fair has expanded to include both parks and across the road near the council chambers, the Lions club will be obtaining a new PA system to keep everyone informed on the events of the day.

The three sites will also feature musical entertainment from local buskers, who will be making their way around the grounds.

There are around 60 registered stalls, which will cater to food, entertainment and unique shopping opportunities.

Old machinery such as old bailing machines and farm equipment will be on display, as well as a range of classic cars from the Cooma Car Club.

There will be three trailer-loads of firewood auctioned off as well.

There is plenty of parking available close to the fair, with a variety of food and drinks on offer.

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Conquer Kozzie this autumn Thredbo – closest access point to the rooftop of Australia

There you are, standing tall on the rooftop of Australia, for that moment there is no-one higher than you in the country - you have done it, you have conquered Kozzie, Australia’s highest mountain at 2,228m above sea level.

This year, Thredbo Resort is encouraging all Australians to climb to the peak of Mt Kosciuszko and stand on very top of Australia. This is an iconic achievement that most can do, whether it’s mum or dad, grandma or grandpa, the kids or partners, this is certainly an experience you will never forget.

While you are staking your claim on Australia’s highest mountain, take in the views that sweep 360 degrees from the Victorian High Country to the Monaro Plains and across the majestic Kosciuszko Main Range. Breathe in the fresh alpine air that has a sweet scent of wildflowers that emblazon the landscape in a kaleidoscope of colour.

Thredbo’s year round chairlift whisks you to the closest access point to Mt Kosciuszko, from the top of the

Thredbo you are only 6.5km’s from the summit, the mesh and paved walkway make this an easy to navigate, comfortable walk.

You can go on the walk alone or head out with a local Thredbo guide and learn along the way. Thredbo host a number of guided walks to Mt Kosciuszko including the Day Walk that departs every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. There is also the incredible Kosciuszko Sunset and Full Moon Walks that sees you high above the Main Range as the last rays of the day light up the sky in a sea of colour and the monthly hikes give the added bonus of a rising full-moon, one adventure not to missed.

So this autumn, take the challenge and experience a day out with altitude (and lots of it). Bring your family and friends and tick Kozzie off your bucket list and stake your claim as Australia’s highest, even if it is just for that moment.

Visit thredbo.com.au and spread the word and #ConquerKozzie this summer.

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Thredbo Jazz Festival 2017 Celebrating 30 years of jazz on the rooftop of Australia Thredbo Jazz is turning 30 and the 2017 festival is set to be one to remember with a big celebration of the best in Australian jazz and roots music on the rooftop of Australia. Thredbo will be swinging April 28- 30 as this year’s line-up is outstanding and is sure to delight lovers of all jazz genres.

Lisa Hunt and Forever Soul will make a debut appearance in Thredbo with Lisa’s extraordinary voice setting the soul free for some late night partying. Australian jazz legend Bob Barnard is back with the Barnard Family Jazz Band and for more dancing than a cuban conga line Chukale is bringing the Latin Big Band back to the village.

Thredbo crowd favourites the Kirrawee High Band return with their youthful energy and prodigious talent and for lovers of modern improvisation the Matt McMahon Trio will weave their spontaneous spell.

Some fresh faces to the Thredbo Jazz program traditional jazz fans will love the Thredbo debut of the Unity Hall JazzBand along with Mikelangelo and the Black Sea Gentleman who will bring their Baltic bravado and good times to town. A must see is Gregg Arthur who is reviving Nat King Cole and the dinner suit.

Thredbo regulars George Washingmachine, Liza Ohlback and Lionel Robinson are sure to wow the crowds.

The festival program will see 17 bands playing in a variety of venues from the village to the top of the mountain, so festival goers can catch performers in different settings across the weekend.

The full artist line up: • Lisa Hunt - Forever Soul • Chukale (Cuban Big Band) • Barnard Family - Jazz Legend Bob Barnard & Family • Unity Hall Jazz Band • Mikelangelo and The Black Sea Gentlemen • Gregg Arthur • Matt McMahon Trio • George Washingmachine Trio • Todd Hardy with Anita Spring • Di Bird & Steve Bryan • Cassy Greaves • Liza Ohlback

The beauty of the Thredbo festival is that all venues are within walking distance so once you arrive, leave your car behind and enjoy the fresh mountain air and jazz tunes on foot. The combination of concert, intimate and poolside venues showcasing artists at their best will create a party not to be missed.

There is an accommodation option to suit everyone in Thredbo with all-inclusive festival and accommodation packages starting from $160 per person per night and Early Bird weekend festival passes are only $129 and full priced weekend festival passes are $159.

For the full festival line up of artists, program, accommodation and ticket prices visit thredbojazz.com.au or call Thredbo Resort Centre on 1300 020 589

• Hieronymous Trio • Lionel Robinson & The “Inâ€? Crowd • The Pocket Trio • Kirrawee High School Band • Anne-Lise Larsen • George’s Jam Session

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REX OPERATIONAL RESULTS JUMP 88 percent

The Regional Express (Rex) Group has announced its first half financial year 2017 (1H FY17) results.

Rex announced a statutory Profit Before Tax (PBT) of $8.6 million (M) on a turnover of $144.3M compared to a statutory Loss Before Tax of $13.2M in the 1H FY16 period. Its operational PAT of $6.2M represents an 88% improvement over last financial year’s 1H operational PAT of $3.3M. Rex Chief Operating Officer Neville howell said, “ With Qantas, Virgin Australia and Air New Zealand all reporting significant drops in profits or even losses, we are pleased that Rex was not only able to buck the trend but has managed to improve its performance convincingly.”

“We see indications of the bottoming of the decline in regional travel in the first half of the FY. If this trend continues in the second half, then this would strongly suggest the beginning of a recovery in the Australian

regional economy.

Regional Express (Rex) is Australia’s largest independent regional airline operating a fleet of more than 50 Saab 340 aircraft on some 1500 weekly flights to 58 destinations throughout every state in Australia. The Rex group comprises Regional Express, air freight and charter operator PelAir Aviation and Dubbo-based regional airline Air Link, as well as the pilot academy Australian Airline Pilot Academy.

Rex offers flights between Cooma (Snowy Mountains Airport) and Sydney seven days a week from the June long weekend.

The airline also offers CoomaSydney connections five days per week outside of the winter tourist season.

Pictured right, Snowy Mountains Airport’s Paul Clarke and Julie Swinney with Deputy Premier John Barilaro and Rogan Corbett.

Below: the start of the upgrade works at the airport

Construction commences on Snowy Mountains Airport upgrade Construction works have now commenced on the Snowy Mountains Airport Lighting Upgrade following the award of tenders last month.

Member for Monaro, John Barilaro said “We are very proud to fund these important works for the Snowy Mountains region, and we anticipate that the airport upgrade will provide a huge boost to our local economy,” Mr Barilaro said.

“This $1.43 million project, paid for entirely under the NSW Government’s Restart NSW Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund, will include a repair and reseal of the current runway, taxiway and apron surfaces, in addition to a full upgrade of all runway and hazard lighting infrastructure.”

The Snowy Mountains Airport is a major link servicing NSW’s alpine region, with the facility currently used for REX flights to and from Sydney, charter flights and private planes.

The facility has also become an essential part of the wider community, with the airport used for firefighting purposes by the Rural Fire Service and National Parks and Wildlife Service as well as air ambulances operated by the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

“The impact that this upgraded facility will have on local industries will be huge, with our estimates suggesting that regional income will increase by $50 million over the next 20 years,” Mr Barilaro said.

“It will enable the airport to provide better

services for our existing flights, while also attracting new seasonal air services to the region.

“With increased visitation will come more tourist dollars, and we anticipate that the benefits for the Snowy Mountains’ ski resorts and tourist businesses will be significant.”

The NSW Government’s Restart NSW Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund has invested $110 million into funding critical visitor economy infrastructure projects across regional NSW, including the upgrade of 27 airports.

Resealing works are expected to be finished by the end of the month, with the lighting upgrade to be completed by early April. The airport will be working at its new, extended capacity for the first weekend of the ski season on June 9.

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Jindabyne

EASTER ART SHOW AND SALE Jindabyne Lions again invite you to the Ray White Jindabyne Easter Art Show and Sale in the Memorial Hall, Kosciuszko Road, Jindabyne.

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The Art Show Co-ordinator, Mr Terry Chalk is expecting more than 300 entries for this wellestablished feature of Easter in Jindabyne, which has been run by the Lions Club for more than 10 years.

Easter and the School Holidays coincide this year, and Mr Chalk is expecting a large number of visitors and is looking forward to again selling more than 50 pieces of outstanding artwork.

While this may seem to be a large number of sales, experience has shown that the quality and attractive pricing from local artists always brings out the bargain hunters and connoisseurs looking for that ideal piece for their home or holiday lodge.

Traditional and contemporary entries will include a diverse range of skills and techniques in the categories of Oils, Acrylic, Watercolour, Pastel, Drawing, Mixed Media, Sculpture and Craft and Mr Chalk commented that, “In recent years, photography, in particular, continues to grow thanks to the advent of widespread digital technology”.

Complementing the Art Show during Easter, will be the exhibition of beautiful quilts by the Snowy Mountains Quilters in the adjacent Supper Room of the Memorial Hall. Across the road in Banjo Paterson Park, visitors can meander past the “Lake Light” innovative sculptures on the foreshore of Lake Jindabyne.

“We are very grateful for the support we receive from local businesses for the Art Show” said Terry. “Ray White – Jindabyne, our major “Naming” sponsor, provides substantial prize money which is a great attraction

for the surprising number of “unknown” artists who thrive in our community.

Joan and Peter Bird who own Ray White Jindabyne are very supportive of our local Arts and many people will have noticed, their daughter Kaelin’s “mini gallery” just inside the entrance to the Ray White office next to the Post Office in Gippsland Street.

As well as Ray White and our other local sponsors, Terry Chalk was very pleased to announce that Eckersley’s have also come on board. Although they may not be well known to people outside of the art world, for 50 years Eckersley’s have been a major supplier of art and craft materials in Australia through their 25 shops, including two in Canberra.

Eckersley’s join with Ray White, Lake Crackenback Resort and Spa, Wendy Hukins Home Cleaning, Perisher, NPWS, and Mountain Maid in providing prizes for the various artistic categories.

Mitre 10 Jindabyne again sponsors the Opening Night which is on the Thursday before Easter. Admission to the Opening Night is $10 per person which includes a light supper by the Country Women’s Association, with Lions manning the liquid refreshments.

Everyone is welcome to the Opening Night and announcement of prize winners.

The show will then run until the Saturday after Easter so there is ample opportunity for visitors and residents to browse or find a bargain amongst the many high quality entries. It is now one of the largest and most successful regional art shows in the state.

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Take a hike with the Geehi Club If you’re looking for the perfect way to

experience the unrivalled beauty of the Snowy Mountains, then a bushwalk should be top of your ‘must do’ list when visiting the region.

A walk through the mountains will reveal many picturesque and captivating sights.

One group who regularly enjoys the very best of the Snowy Mountains is the Geehi Bushwalking Club. The club holds regular walks throughout the year and encourage visitors to the region to join them on one of their walks.

In 1957 when the Snowy Mountains had few roads and no bitumen a group of Snowy Mountains Authority (SMA) employees liked what they saw and formed a club that was to become known as the Geehi Club, later the Geehi Bushwalking Club Incorporated. p

Fired by a love of the vast, impenetrable mountains they set out to explore and mark tracks in their off duty hours. Ably supported and encouraged by the SMA leader, Sir William Hudson, this group kept meticulous records of where they went and what they saw.

They even drew their own maps. Soon other bushwalkers learned of this and begged for copies so that they too could experience the wonders of the mountains of snow.

In 1961 the first issue of the Snowy Mountains Walks book was issued and today issue eight is being sold around Australia.

For most of the club’s early life there were walks every month with ski trips in the winter. In 1992 the club merged with the Monaro Cross Country Ski Club and dramatically increased its skiing program often to two or more trips a month in season. Walks also increased in number.

T da To day y 60 years have passed and you can Today, still explore the Snowy Mountains a a member of the legendary Geehi as Club.

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The Geehi Bushwalking Club works with Kosciuszko Huts Association and National Parks to care for and maintain Mackays Hut. The club also provided money to the Kosciuszko National Park to build the bridge over Bullock yard creek on the Thredbo Valley trail.

The club started 2017 with a walk to Stillwell Restaurant ruins via Mt Stillwell and a mid week walk to Rainbow Lake.

The Geehi Bushwalking Club is an affiliated member of The Confederation of Bushwalking Clubs NSW Incorporated and as such has appropriate Public Liability and Personal Accident insurance cover for all club members.

Visitors are welcome to come along on club walks, after signing a liability waiver form as stipulated by their insurers. To join the club on one of their famous walks, and to experience the beauty the Snowy Mountains has to offer, you can contact the club via email on geehiclub@hotmail.com or via their website at geehiclub.blogspot. com.au

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Annual Lake Light

Lake Light Sculpture is an inspiring outdoor sculpture exhibition and competition which will be held along the stunning foreshore of Lake Jindabyne in the Snowy Mountains of NSW from April 14 to 17.

The Easter long weekend offers a fantastic opportunity to experience Jindabyne.

The sculptures are displayed in an

The annual Lake Light Sculpture event is gearing up to welcome another record attendance this Easter.

The foreshore of Lake Jindabyne at Banjo Paterson Park will once again be transformed into an outdoor gallery for the Easter period.

Artists exhibiting in the 2017 event will be vying for the $10,000 Major Award proudly sponsored by Major Event Partner, Thredbo.

“There is no other event quite like it in the region in that it gives local, regional

evocative setting with the reflections of the Snowy Mountains on the lake, providing a living studio for the artworks but it is as night falls that the real magic begins.

Illumination has, since the festivals inception, been a defining element of Lake Light Sculpture.

Artists embed lighting, reflection and optical tricks into their sculptures to

and nationally acclaimed sculptors an opportunity to exhibit their work in a natural setting with the backdrop of the mountains” said General Manager of Thredbo, Jordan Rodgers.

“Each year Jindabyne is proud to present a stunning array of sculptures which connect people, art and place” said Chairperson, Lisa Matthes.

“The artworks vary from fun and whimsical to those with a serious message to convey.”

Judging the event again this

play on the light of Easter’s full moon.

The effect is dramatic, transforming the already interesting sculptures and revealing hidden elements. It’s an ideal time to bundle up against the autumn chill and walk hand-in-hand with the ones you love along the foreshore.

Artists of every calibre – including professionals, experienced and emerging artists, community groups,

Easter will be a representative from the School of Arts at the Australian National University and Jan Ireland, who for many years curated the Sculpture on the Edge event at Bermagui.

Rydges Snowy Mountains will be catering onsite at this year’s event so guests can enjoy a warm beverage or meal lakeside whilst visiting the event.

One of the unique aspects of the annual Lake Light Sculpture event held on the foreshores of Lake Jindabyne at Banjo Paterson Park is the

and local tradesmen – participate in the event.

Previous years prizes have included a sculpture residency at the Australian National University, the coveted People’s Choice Award, and the Illumination Award for the sculpture that best lights up the star-strewn night.

illumination of the sculptures each evening.

“With the event tied to coincide with the Easter Moon, viewing the illuminated sculptures at night adds a whole new dimension to the works and demands both a night and a day viewing” said 2017 Artistic Director and Jindabyne Central School Art teacher, Ben Eyles.

To encourage more artists to incorporate illumination in their sculptures, the Illumination Award has been doubled this year to $5,000

thanks to support from our new event partner Red Energy.

Visitors to the event each Easter are encouraged to revisit in the evening and stroll the sculpture walk which seems to magically change into a completely different experience to viewing the outdoor studio in the daytime.

All visitors are encouraged to vote for their favourite illuminated artwork in the Todd Costa People’s Choice Illumination Award proudly sponsored by Red Energy.

Sculpture in Jindabyne

2017 Program Friday 14th April 2017 10am – Official opening and announcement of the award winners.

8am to 9pm – Sculptures exhibited for viewing and acquisition.

Sunday 16th April 2017 8am to 9pm – Sculptures exhibited for viewing and acquisition.

4pm to 6pm – Drinks with the artists and announcement of People’s Choice Award winner.

Saturday 15th April 2017 8am to 9pm – Sculptures exhibited for viewing and acquisition.

Monday 17th April 2017 8am to Midday – Sculptures exhibited for viewing and acquisition.

Visit the exhibition tent near the Strzelecki Monument at Banjo Paterson Park to collect an Event Guide (for a gold coin donation), participate in the People’s Choice Award or partake in the Sculpture Trail Hunt Activity.

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13

Capturing our night skies

Living in the Snowy Monaro region, away from major cities is not only an idyllic lifestyle; it provides spectacular views of the night sky. The absence of light pollution, the high altitude and the lack of moisture is the perfect recipe for a brilliant starry sky.

Teaching people to capture photographs of the Monaro night sky, and even the elusive Aurora Australis, is Ian Williams – the Aurora Chaser. Ian has always had a passion for photography, the outdoors and astronomy. When he was 14-years-old he created a 15cm reflector telescope so he could study the night sky.

Working as a lawyer up until last year, Ian decided to retire and pursue his dream of starting a photographic business, Images by IMW. Showcasing the Canberra and Snowy Mountains area, Ian is enjoying connecting with some of the best things in life – things that he says create joy and cause us pause and wonder.

Ian not only sells his photographs, he also hosts field workshops, teaching people how to photograph the night sky and how to be able to forecast the arrival of the Aurora Australis.

Ian says all you need is an average DSLR camera with a kit lens.

“There are lots of awesome sights in the night sky that can be seen on any clear night such as dwarf galaxies situated 200 million light years away, nebulae and other lights such as air glow that can be photographed very easily,” he says.

“My work shops explain how to predict the arrival of the aurora (which may happen more frequently then we think), and a how to do astrophotography in a fun and informative way – taking selfies under the stars.”

Ian says he has been able to capture the Aurora Australis three or four times in the last two months.

“The Aurora Australis appears spasmodically and depends on the sun. It has an 11-year cycle of activity, which just peaked in 2015, so we are currently at the tail end of that period. However the Aurora Australis isn’t the only thing to look for when photographing the night sky. There are also coronal holes, which are like a window on the sun that allows the solar wind to be emitted at higher speeds. This causes reactions with the earth’s magnetic field, creating light.”

When it comes to his workshops, Ian will take the

group out at nightfall, give them a presentation on Aurora Australis conditions and then take the group out into the field.

Ian says all you will need is a basic DSLR camera, a stable tripod, warm clothing, water and snacks.

Out in the field he shows the group how to take panoramas of the Milky Way, how to photograph star trails and teach them about light painting foregrounds to capture the brilliance of the starry sky.

“Basically I like to focus on what people would like to learn, and make sure they get photos they will really like.”

The workshops usually last about four hours, but if the conditions are good and everyone is enjoying themselves, Ian will continue the workshop to maximize the students experience.

Prices are $120 per person, $100 for a couple and $50 for students.

Ian recommends that photographers never go out at night alone.

Ian is holding his next workshop from Mt Gladstone, Cooma on April 29. Anyone interested can contact him via email at ianmwillo@gmail.com.

14

Threatened Pygmy-possum colony thriving in Snowy Mountains New survey results from the 30th year of research by a group of dedicated volunteers have shown the endangered Mountain Pygmypossums are once again flourishing in the Snowy Mountains.

This year’s survey across five sites has revealed a total of 165 Mountain Pygmypossums: 105 females and 60 males demonstrating stable, and in some areas, growing populations of the unique marsupials.

The work led by the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) and the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) under the Saving Our Species (SoS) program, is believed to be one of the longest running fauna monitoring projects of its kind in the world.

OEH Senior Threatened Species Officer Dr Linda Broome, who has been studying and monitoring the Mountain Pygmy-possum for most of her 30 plus year career, said that this year’s survey team noted a late snow melt which means female possums are only just starting to have their young.

“Even with a late snow melt the numbers are still encouraging with 320 joeys recorded.

“Continuing the trapping of feral cats, a major threat to the possums, has also been successful.

An increasing focus on this work since 2010 has helped numbers rise significantly.”

Dr Broome started the Mountain Pygmypossum research back in 1986 and has dedicated her working life to protecting this endearing native animal.

“We have used the same survey methods and trap locations for 30 years to ensure robust, standardised data. The only change was when we swapped to tiny microchips instead of ear tags, which is much easier for us and the possums,” Dr Broome said.

During the annual survey up to 20 devoted volunteers spend weeks scouring the mountains setting traps loaded with walnuts which the possums cannot resist. The team notes animals that have been microchipped, before carefully chipping and registering new animals, and

recording measurements including sex, body weight, reproductive condition (including pouch young) and parasites.

Neil McElhinney is one of the longest serving volunteers working on the project. He’s attended 21 surveys over the past 30 years.

“It’s a privilege to support such a significant and long term project. It’s the enthusiasm of the volunteers that makes it a joy!” Mr McElhinney said.

Apart from the volunteers, Snowy Hydro and the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife have also supported the research. Last year the Threatened Species Commissioner contributed money to boost feral pest control, paying for a full time cat trapper and detection dog, now covered by the SoS program.

Also known as Burramys parvus the average Mountain Pygmy-possum is between 8-12cm long, weighing about 40 grams. It survives winter by fattening up in late summer, then hibernating for up to seven months until the snow melts in spring.

On average Mountain Pygmy-possums live around two to three years but females can live up to 13 years and males up to five. Despite fitting into the palm of a hand, male Mountain Pygmypossums can cover up to three kilometres a night when looking for food and mates.

The Mountain Pygmy-possum is the only Australian mammal exclusively found in the alpine zone above the winter snowline; it depends on insulation from the snow for its survival. It lives on the ground in rocky areas where boulders have accumulated below mountain peaks.

Ongoing work to protect the precious Mountain Pygmy-possum into the future is funded through the SoS program which has allocated close to $90,000 during 2016-17.

The NSW Government aims to help almost a thousand animals and plants threatened with extinction under its flagship five year $100 million SoS program.

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15

What is Batlow CiderFest?

Batlow CiderFest and the Cider Industry Conference are a celebration of great Australian ciders, held in one of Australia’s most recognised apple producing towns.

This year, the fest is on May 20 and is preceded by a Cider Conference.

Batlow lies in the foothills of the Snowy Mountains NSW and is the ‘highlands’ of the rich Riverina plains.

It is a place to retreat to when the heat gets too much in summer, when spring and autumn colours beckon, and when log fires, warm cider, and hearty meals with friends and family call.

Taking place in early Autumn, the festival is a celebration of the end of the apple harvest and downtime for our apple growers.

Join them and our community and catch up with family and friends, enjoy great food, live music and fresh air.

Soak up the street festival atmosphere while sampling some of Australia’s fabulous ciders.

Recreating the street party atmosphere of traditional European events, Batlow Ciderfest quickly carved a niche in the NSW events calendar and found its way onto many people’s bucket list.

With visitor numbers rising to above 5,000, the word is spreading and more and more people are travelling to enjoy the the fun of the fest and take in the beauty of the region - not just for this event but at other spectacular times of the year.

We know however that visiting Batlow CiderFest once is never enough and we’re confident you’ll return year after year.

A wide range of ethnic cuisines will be on offer as well as other merchandise stalls and interesting exhibits.

With two stages of entertainment, street performers, buskers, and Wacky Apple Tarts leading the dance, there is something to please everyone.

Batlow CiderFest goes from 10am to 4.30pm.

Entry is $5 Adult, under 18’s are free.

How we began The first Batlow Ciderfest It is …… an experience worth was the brainchild of Batlow’s creating! own Bavarian, Harald Tietze, in 2012.

2017 Festival of the Falling Leaf Str t Parade and Gala Day

Saturday April 29

Autumn in Tumut offers one of the most spectacular display of seasonal colours to be found anywhere in NSW. In 1954 the local headmaster, Alf Wood, introduced the idea of a festival to celebrate the arrival of autumn and the falling leaves which characterised the town’s many parks and gardens.

Alf enlisted the support of the Rotary Club of Tumut and The Tumut Festival of the Falling Leaf was born.

The initial aim of the festival was to foster an appreciation of nature’s colours to both the local community and visitors through a series of events over a period of 10 days.

Over the years the Festival of the Falling Leaf, like the season it represents, has seen many changes, but, has continued to flourish and grow into a fabulous annual event attracting thousand of visitors far and wide.

In 2017 the Festival will celebrate its sixtythird anniversary. A remarkable effort for a community based festival. The event is well supported by the Tumut Shire, the local business community and the Shire residents.

2017 will see the return of the street parade on

Saturday April 29.

The Festival of the Falling Leaf is recognised as one of the major events in the Tumut Region. The scenic location, autumn colours and crisp, clear air of the Tumut Region provide a unique festival experience for visitors.

The grand finale to the 2017 Festival of the Falling Leaf goes off with a bang via a stunning Snowy Works & Services Fireworks Display.

Watch from the comfort of your car, or set up a picnic on a rug or with camping chairs...the choice is completely up to you! On top of the hill or down on the paddock, there is plenty of room for everyone to enjoy this family friendly spectacular.

Fireworks will commence at 7:30pm sharp so you should plan to get there early to grab a great position.

As a stand alone event we want to ensure this event is accessible to all members of the community, of all ages, without cost.

So save the date, invite your friends and spread the word...you won’t want to miss this wonderful event!

Thanks to Platinum Sponsor: Snowy Works & Services.

For more information: www.fallingleaffestival.com.au

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16

Once pitched to be the capital city of Australia, the peaceful little town of Dalgety is home to the great Snowy River, beautiful rolling hills, mighty boulders and just over 200 of the friendliest of people.

Two of those people are Sue and Colin Fabish, owners of the Snowy River Holiday Park.

Snowy River Holiday Park

From sunny Cairns, Sue and Col were avid caravan travellers and they made their way all the way down to Dalgety on one particular trip three years ago.

They fell in love with the countryside and when they saw the local caravan park was up for sale, they flipped a coin for it.

Sue and Col have made a huge difference to the park, already achieving half of the goals they set out to do in their five year refurbishing plan.

The 10 units now all have their own private deck or patio area. There are all new furnishings, a new BBQ hut, new amenities block and now a new camp kitchen.

The camp kitchen has a fridge, microwave oven and four-burner cooktop all available for guests of the park to use.

It also has sensor lighting, rainwater tanks, solar panels and instant gas hot water.

“Anything we do, we try to make it as energy efficient as possible,” says Sue. Being caravan travellers themselves, Sue and Col are

always striving to create a park they would like to visit themselves.

It’s all in the small touches. Cleaning the bathrooms every day, keeping the garden tidy, walking around to check on guests each day, welcoming all pets, even planting a herb garden for guests to use while cooking Sue and Col have thought of everything.

“We love having young families come to stay,” says Sue. “Parents are often asking us what entertainment we have available here. We keep it simple. The whole idea of coming to a park like ours is to get away from cities and back to nature.

“We have the beauty of the Snowy River at our doorstep – perfect for swimming. We have goats and sheep and it’s the perfect place for riding bikes. There is no mobile coverage here, which means families can really connect and enjoy time together without distractions from the outside world.”

“Quite a few people who have come to stay at the park

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have ended up purchasing property here, or coming back to rent, because they love it so much,” says Col. Sue and Col are passionate about the Dalgety community and the region as a whole.

“If we keep promoting the region, people will keep coming back and the word will spread. We want everyone to be successful. We often help our guests with their itineraries, suggest places they can go to eat and tell them where they can go for bushwalking, horse riding, kayaking, or anything else they are interested in,” says Col. “We even organised a bike rally for return visitors, who were already familiar with the area, so they could explore some places they had never been before. They loved it.

“The whole idea is we want to complement the region so everyone benefits. We’re not here to compete with anyone. We don’t want people to just stay in our park the whole time because you can do that anywhere. We want them to experience this unique and beautiful region.”

READ THE MONARO POST ONLINE KEEP UP TO DATE WITH THE LOCAL NEWS, SPORT, CLASSIFIEDS AND MORE ON YOUR COMPUTER, TABLET OR SMARTPHONE

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17

Jindabyne s n a e J ia r lo G Some S ome s say ay each ti time ime you m make ake eap purchase, urchas se itt is s lik like ke voting for that particular company. Gloria Jeans, an Australian owned company, take their coffee very seriously. Not only does it need to taste great, it needs to be produced by suppliers who take care of their employees and the environment.

Conscious of sustainability, their coffee is sourced from enterprises that have been audited to meet social, environmental and economic sustainability standards under the Rainforest Alliance.

The Rainforest Alliance focuses on agriculture, forestry and tourism industries, ensuring they comply with the relevant standards. Biodiversity conservation, effective planning and farm management systems, respecting the rights of local communities and indigenous populations and climate

change mitigation are just a few of the requirements set for these enterprises.

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With the widest range of hot and cold beverages, an easy pick up location, free Wi-Fi and air conditioning, Gloria Jeans is the best place for your coffee in Jindabyne.

It’s not just coffee, but plenty of quick and tasty snacks are available too. Cakes and sausage rolls, slices and sandwiches – they are the perfect snacks for when you’re on the go, or for tucking into while you sitting and checking your emails.

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Activity Centre Guided Mountain Bike Tours Horse Riding Fishing Adventures Mountain Bike Hire Water Skiing & Wakeboard Lessons River sledding Mountain Walks River Kayaking Segway Tours Canoeing & Kayaking

Shop 1 Snowy Mtns Plaza Next to the Banjo

02 6456 1010 www.snowyrivertravel.com.au

18

LAOKO (Looking After Our Kosciuszko Orphans) LAOKO (Looking After Our Kosciuszko Orphans) is the second longest running wildlife rescue group in the state.

Formed in 1978, the not-for-profit organisation has rescued countless numbers of native wildlife in the Snowy Mountains.

During winter, they can get as many as five animals a day due to the increase in traffic.

The majority of road accidents involve male animals, however there are occasionally females carrying young.

When a person finds an injured animal, they can call LAOKO on 6456 1313.

Once the volunteer has determined that all the people present are unharmed and that their vehicle has been moved safely off the road, they will take the details of the animals condition and location of the accident.

Asking the caller to remain there, a volunteer rescuer will inform the police and attend the scene.

The first thing the rescuer does is to check the sex and assess the injuries.

Unfortunately most cases require destroying the animal to put it out of its suffering.

Several of the volunteers are licensed to shoot the animals, if not, the police are called.

If there is a joey, LAOKO will always take it into care. Animal coordinators assign it to a rescuer who has the relevant expertise in that particular species and age.

The organisation is made up of trained volunteers.

With about 10 core volunteers at the moment, LAOKO is always looking for more help, and of course, more donations.

The cost of raising orphaned wildlife is not cheap and 80 percent of the money LAOKO raises goes to purchasing milk.

Marsupial milk costs $25 per kilogram.

Volunteers are required to pay about half, with LAOKO subsidising the cost.

Current president Pete Graham says that volunteers are not to take the job on lightly.

“Taking on an orphaned animal is a 24/7 task. In many ways it takes as much commitment as raising a human baby,” he says.

“If the animal is very young, with its eyes still closed, they may require feeding every 15-20 minutes, even if it is just a few drops.”

“Wombats are a two year commitment as that is how long they stay with their mother in the wild. Kangaroos are a bit less.”

Pete himself has had up to four wombats at once and says that one volunteer had seven young animals to care for at one time, having to sleep in 20-minute shifts.

LAOKO operates under a National Parks and Wildlife Service licence, with all volunteers trained according to the National Parks and Wildlife Act. A report is sent in each year of what the organisation has done. Pete says that 2016 was a fairly steady year.

The Snowy Monaro region is teeming with wildlife. Call LAOKO on 6456 1313 if you find an injured animal.

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19

Easter event brings railway to life

Cooma Railway Station will step back in time this Easter with a series of displays people about what CMR has planned for the future,” Matt said. and tours set to bring the railway precinct back to its former glory.

Like all grand railway stations, Cooma’s station possesses a refreshment room Train buffs, locals and visitors to the region are invited to head along to the that once was buzzing with passengers. Devonshire teas were the staple choice railway station on Easter Sunday. The Cooma Monaro Railway (CMR) committee for those about to embark on their journey, and come this Easter the refreshment has organised a bumper day’s action with photography exhibitions showcasing room doors will be thrown open to the public to enjoy their own Devonshire tea. the history of the local railway, and railway adventures across the state.

Entry into this great Easter event is a gold coin donation. To enter your The committee is calling on people to enter photographs in the displays in the photographs for the various exhibitions, you can drop them into the station hope of building an impressive collection of railway images. There are prizes up between 9am-5pm, Mondays to Wednesdays or mail your entries to: CMR Photo for grabs in the youth and adult competitions.

Comp, Cooma Station, PO BOX 1327, Cooma, 2630.

In the youth photo competition, CMR publicity officer, Matt Bourke, is calling on budding photographers to The Cooma Monaro Railway committee is encouraging people to head along to their Easter Sunday event submit images under the theme, ‘historical Snowy at the railway station. Dave Healy, rolling stock manager; Gordon Strachan, vice president; Dave Patterson, Monaro’. He is inviting contemporary pictures depicting president; and Matt Bourke, publicity officer. historical objects, buildings or locations.

“It’ll be a great Easter weekend at the railway station.

For a good day out, make sure you come along,” Matt said.

“There’ll be photo comps and the railway precinct will be fully opened for people to come learn about the history of the precinct.

“In the photo comps we are offering prizes, and we don’t expect the kids to frame their images, we can affix them to a board. It’s really easy to be a part of.”

As well as the photographic trip down memory lane, Matt is excited to be bringing visitors a live model steam display on the platform.

From 1pm at the railway station, Matt will don his best train driver’s hat and run an informative, behind the scenes tour of the railway precinct. The tour will take in the much loved railway station, the yards, and the barracks room.

Matt said the tour offers the chance for people to appreciate the railway’s past and gain a better understanding of its future.

“This guided tour is free and offers a historical tour of the railway. All parts will be open and I’ll also talk to

Snowy Monaro Region Upcoming Events H I G H L I G H T S MARCH

APRIL

M AY

JUNE

Saturday 11th - Cooma Show: Cooma Showground & Multifunction Centre

Saturday 1st - Sunday 2nd - Vintage & Classic pre 60’s Car Rally: Cooma and surrounds

Wednesday 10th - Dalgety Womens Day “Women of the World”:Tickets $15 includes morning teas & Guest speakers.

Saturday 10th - Snowy Weddings Bridal Fair: Thredbo Alpine Hotel

Thursday 16th - Sunday 19th Loritz Circus: Cooma Showground & Multifunction Centre

Friday 14th - Monday 17th - Lake Light Sculpture: Jindabyne Lake foreshore

Saturday 18th - Bombala Show: Wellington Street

Saturday 15th - Adaminaby Easter Fair: Fun for the whole family.

Friday 28th - Sunday 30th - Thredbo Jazz Festival: The Thredbo Jazz Festival returns for it’s 30th year.

Wednesday 28th - CONQUEST XVI with David Miller A.M: Presented

by SMAC June Long Weekend Peak Festival Perisher

SUPPORTS EVENTS IN OUR REGION

www.snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au

22

New owner for

Steve Rickett is ringing in a new era of business ownership in Nimmitabel and a week into life as the new owner of the Bellz Café, he is forecasting a boom period for the town.

Steve said the town’s existing and prospective businesses have the opportunity to increase their appeal to the thousands of tourists who pass through town each week.

“Nimmitabel has potential in business and tourism growth. There’s a really good mix of current businesses, and ones set to open soon,” Steve said.

“I’d like to capitalise on the tourist traffic and make Nimmitabel a destination stop.”

Having previously worked at the popular

Bellz Cafe

café, Steve decided the time was right to important to support locals. The menu is purchase the business. Mr Rickett who also made fresh daily, it’s all homemade,” he runs the historic Burnima Homestead just said. outside of Bombala, said his café venture “We make everything fresh each is a welcomed returned to the hospitality morning. So far we’ve received positive industry, feedback about “Come visit the café and try our “I missed what the café is great coffee. We also sell local hospitality.

I doing.” wares in store as well.” love working The homemade with people and sausage rolls and this allows me to meat pies are sure continue doing so,” Mr Rickett said. to be a hit with café goers, with those A trademark of the Bellz Café is its use of opting to sit in able to enjoy the café’s local products. Steve is passionate about ambience. creating a café centred on wholesome, “The café offers a friendly, relaxing fresh food. environment. We welcome all groups and “Everything is kept local; I think it’s organisations, so if you’re after a drive and

a nice breakfast or lunch we can do that for you.

“Whilst here you can have a shop around at the other businesses, there’s plenty of choice.”

At his customers’ request, Steve has extended the café’s trading hours. The Bombala Street business is open Monday to Sundays from 8am. On Friday nights Steve is planning to open till 7pm to cater for weekend travellers.

The Bellz Café offers a wide-range of food options, catering for savoury lovers and/or those with a sweet tooth.

“Come visit the café and try our great coffee. We also sell local wares in store as well.”

REGULAR EVENTS, LOCAL MARKETS & FUTURE EVENTS FUTURE EVENTS DALGETY TEAM PENNING: 23-24 September 2017 SNOWY RIDE: 4 November 2017 ITU CROSS TRIATHLON WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS: November 2017 JINDABYNE’S MAN FROM SNOWY RIVER RODEO: 28 December 2017 AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL BUSKING CHAMPIONSHIPS: 4 Nov 2017

REGULAR EVENTS

Check out page 32 for a handy map of the Snowy Monaro Region

THE

EVERY THURSDAY: Trivia Night at the Alpine Hotel from 7:30pm Taco and Trivia at the Cooma Hotel from 7:30pm Music Club at the Two Vaults Restaurant 7:30pm - 9:30pm Cooma Monaro Bridge Club at the Cooma Ex-Services Club from 6:30pm EVERY FRIDAY: Berridale Community Music Afternoon at the CWA romms from 1:30pm Friday Nite Live @ The Federal Hotel in Nimmitabel from 8pm

POST

LOCAL MARKETS Saturday 1st April, Saturday 6th May, Saturday 3rd June: Crackenback Markets @ Wildbrumby Distillery – Alpine Way, 10am till 2pm Saturday 11th March, Saturday 8th April, Saturday 13th May, Saturday 10th June: Nimmitabel CWA Markets – Bombala Street, 9am till 1pm Adaminaby Museum Market and Car Boot Sale - Snowy Mountains Hwy Saturday 18th March, Saturday 15th April, Saturday 20th May: Jindabyne Local Produce Markets – Snowy Region Visitors Centre and Mitre 10, 9am till 1pm Sunday 19th March, Sunday 16th April, Sunday 21st May, Sunday 18th June: Cooma Rotary High Country Markets – Centennial Park, Cooma Sunday 26th March, Sunday 23rd April, Sunday 25th June: Bredbo CWA Village Markets – Bredbo Hall, Monaro Highway, 9am to 3pm

SUPPORTS EVENTS IN OUR REGION

www.snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au

23

Crime rough time in Cooma If you’re wondering why the ball and chain was invented, or wish to learn more about one of the state’s most brazen gaol escapes, then the Corrective Services NSW Museum in Cooma is a must visit attraction.

Nestled away next to the Cooma Correctional Centre, the museum provides a look at crime through time, showcasing the nation’s corrective services history.

Starting with the arrival of the first fleet, visitors experience an in depth account of Australian history (since settlement), underpinned by the progression of correctional system.

The museum offers an interactive, hands-on tour of what life was and is like for inmates in NSW gaols.

Cooma has become the state headquarters for corrective services history with the facility one of the region’s most revered attractions. Possessing items of national significance, a visit to the museum is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

“After finishing one of the tours, there is greater public awareness about inmate rehabilitation and how today is much different from the punishing times for the convicts that arrived on the First Fleet,” Andrew Weglarz, Statewide Manager for NSW Corrective Services Museums, said.

“For instance, people think the ball and chain was just to stop convicts from running away. But it was more than that, it was to ensure if the ship they were on sunk then they wouldn’t be able to escape.”

A highlight of your visit to the museum is that the guided tours are provided by current inmates at the Cooma Correctional Centre. This is unique to the Cooma museum, and according to Andrew, offers both the inmate and the visitor a more valued experience.

“It’s brilliant with inmates working in the museum. They are the tour guides, the cleaners and are craftspeople as well. It gives them a purpose and something to put on their CV,” Andrew said.

“They’re all risk assessed, and the experience provides a totally different aspect to the tour.”

As you meander through the exhibits, Andrew expects the recently acquired hangman ropes and gallows to make an impression.

“I’m focused on finding new items around the state and bringing it back to Cooma. It’s like the antiques roadshow.

“The museum now has gallows from Bathurst gaol. They were close to being burnt, so we saved it and they’re now on show here.”

“The hangman ropes are a fantastic example of living history and people are

Left: One of the feature items at the museum is the recently acquired gallows from Bathurst gaol.

surprised we have such items here, alongside the gallows.”

In the near future, Andrew hopes to expand the museum and transform it into regional space where visitors and locals can purchase items reflective of their experience at the museum and within the Snowy Monaro area.

To see the museum for yourself it’s located on Vagg Street in Cooma. Situated off Vale Street, close to the CBD, entry is only a gold coin donation, and that includes the full guided tour.

Opening hours are Tuesday – Friday 12.30pm to 3pm and Saturday 9.15am to 3pm. It’s closed Sundays and Mondays.

Andrew Weglarz inspects the pillory, one of many interesting historical items at the Corrective Services NSW Museum in Cooma.

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#TumbarumbaRegion

Tumbarumba Region

Join Reynella Rides for at special â&#x20AC;&#x153;Man from Snowy Riverâ&#x20AC;? Experience families, single mums/dads and children aged 7 and up. Children must be accompanied by a riding adult.

A homestead riding holiday with Reynella is truly hassle free with all costs included in your package: â&#x20AC;˘ Three days of horse riding â&#x20AC;˘ Accommodation at Reynella Homestead â&#x20AC;˘ Helmets and all riding equipment â&#x20AC;˘ Quality mountain horses suited to your ability â&#x20AC;˘ Guide with tuition en route â&#x20AC;˘ Three course dinners with appetizers â&#x20AC;˘ BBQ lunches â&#x20AC;˘ Fully cooked breakfasts â&#x20AC;˘ Our guests will join us each night at the homestead, where they will enjoy our delicious country meals and relax around the open fire.

BYO Alcohol.

Riding at our sister property â&#x20AC;&#x153;Coombeâ&#x20AC;? in the foothills of the Snowy Mountains, a 3000 acre working sheep, cattle and horse property where you will enjoy spectacular views of the Snowy Mountains range and Lake Eucumbene which is part of the mighty Snowy Hydro Scheme.

Alpine Horse Safaris into Kosciuszko National Park

With more than 40 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience in YOUR SAFARI PACKAGE operating mountain safaris, your hosts John and A horse safari with Reynella is truly hassle free Roslyn Rudd will make your stay in Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s with all costs included in your package: Man From Snowy River country a truly memorable one. â&#x20AC;˘ Three, four or five full days guided horse riding in Kosciuszko National Park with tuition School Holiday Homestead Horse Riding â&#x20AC;˘ First & last night accommodation at Reynella Packages Homestead, remaining nights camping in KNP â&#x20AC;˘ Three course dinners with appetizers, fully YOUR HOMESTEAD PACKAGE cooked breakfasts, lunches carried by packhorse Special homestead riding and relaxing â&#x20AC;˘ Camping gear including mattresses and tents package. Prior to our Safaris and throughout the â&#x20AC;˘ Quality mountain horse suited to your ability year we offer special 3 day/4 night school holiday â&#x20AC;˘ Helmets and all riding equipment homestead horse riding packages, perfect for

REYNELLA RIDE DATES MARCH, 2017 10th Mar 3 day/3 night Fri pm to Mon pm 13th Mar KNP $1300 10th Mar 3day/4 night Fri pm to Tues am 14th Mar KNP $1430 19th 5 day/6 night Sun pm to Sat am 25th Mar KNP $2190 26th 4 day/ 5 night Sun pm to Fri am 31st Mar KNP $1760 APRIL, 2017 2nd 3 day/4 night Sat pm to Wed am 5th Apr KNP $1430 8th 3 day/4 night Sat pm to Wed am 12th Apr KNP

$1430 Easter Ride 13th 4 day/4 night Thurs pm to Mon pm 17th Apr KNP $1630 13th 4 day/5 night Thurs pm to Tue am 18th Apr KNP $1760 19th Homestead â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Coombeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Ride 3 day/ 4 night Wed pm to Sun am 23rd Apr Hâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;stead Adult $900 School student $660 23rd 3 day/3 night Sun pm to Wed pm 26th Apr KNP $1300 23rd 3 day/4 night Sun pm to Thu am 27th Apr KNP $1430 23rd 5 day/6night Sun pm to Sat am 29th April KNP $2190

FEEL ON TOP OF THE WORLD!

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Ride Kosciuszko National Park.

Phone now for availabilities and bookings

REYNELLA KOSCIUSKO RIDES

A D A M I N A B Y

O P E N 7 D AY S Fresh Bread, Pies, Cakes & Pastries baked daily Black Board Menu & Great Coffee Dine-in or Takeaway Speciality cakes made to order

OPENING NING HOURS

MON - THURS: 7:30AM - 6:30PM FRI, SAT & SUN: 7:30AM - 8PM SCHOOL HOLIDAYS: 7:30AM - 8PM (Hours can be subject to change)

11 DENISON ST, ADAMINABY PH: 6454 2453

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Call our sales staff on

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Commercial horse treks through Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Snowy Mountains date back to the 1940s.

At this time, two enterprising young mountain men, Vincent Russell, (John Ruddâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s uncle), and Harold Mansfield, guided adventurers through undoubtedly some of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most picturesque, inspiring and challenging country.

Amongst these pioneering adventurers was a young John Rudd, first introduced to the mountains by his uncle, on a guided trek from Kiandra to Mt Kosciuszko.

For John, this led to a lifetime affiliation with the High Country and he has continued the tradition with his wife Roslyn, guiding adventurers through the Kosciuszko National Park on horseback.

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll feel like the Man From Snowy River with Reynella Kosciusko Rides, the original and still the best.

Located near the town of Adaminaby, Reynella runs approximately 6000 acres of working sheep and cattle property.

This remote high country property is home base for the world renowned Reynella Alpine Horseback Safaris through Kosciuszko National Park (Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second largest National Park and home to the Man From Snowy River).

6452 0313

â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;Ś..the Granddaddy of all riding establishmentsâ&#x20AC;?

Julie Miller Travel Sun Herald

Ride â&#x20AC;&#x153;MAN FROM SNOWY RIVER COUNTRYâ&#x20AC;?

With the pioneers - 47 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience Eco Tourism Award 2004 - John Rudd OAM

3 day/4 night or 5 day/6 night treks from Oct to end April.

School Holiday Homestead Horse riding packages also available

Reynella Rides, 699 Kingston Road Adaminaby NSW 2629 Toll Free No: Telephone:

1800 02 9909 (02) 6454 2386 (02) 6454 2469 Fax: (02) 6454 2530 Roslyn and John Rudd OAM

Email: reynella@activ8.net.au | Website: www.reynellarides.com.au Facebook: www.facebook.com/reynellarides

to ask about placing an ad on our website

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Changes to rescue chopper service Patients often tell stories of just what it means, in moments of major trauma, to hear the iconic sound of the Snowy Hydro SouthCare rescue helicopter coming to lend assistance.

The sound is a reminder to us all of how fragile life can be – accidents and illness can and do happen at any time and to anyone.

While the shock, sadness and trauma, of those requiring assistance is always difficult, it is always uplifting to see how Canberrans and our close communities repeatedly step forward to support those in need. The Canberra Bushfires, for instance, highlighted the generous community spirit of Canberrans and our close neighbours.

Since October 1998, SouthCare has enjoyed the strong support of our region. The Snowy Hydro SouthCare helicopter, affectionately known as ‘Charlie’, is a familiar sight and sound across the region providing life-saving aero-medical and rescue services. It’s a community resource on call 24 hours a day, every day of the year and it’s vital to our region’s one million residents and five million visitors each year.

Charlie and her crew can tell almost 7,000 stories of people in situations of dire need being provided critical medical assistance.

The service has received overwhelming community support over the past 18 years. It’s because of that support the ACT and NSW governments now see this as an essential service and have committed to fully fund core operations without the reliance on community fundraising. It’s a unique and

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Call our sales staff on

outstanding success story.

On April 2, a new era begins for Canberra and the surrounding region with the arrival of a brand new state of the art, purpose built, AW139 helicopter. The aircraft will be one of eight that will respond to missions across Southern NSW operating from four bases, Bankstown, Wollongong, Canberra and Orange. The aircrafts deliver the latest in performance, safety and innovation –assisting ACT Ambulance helicopter doctors and paramedics to reach patients in remote areas, faster than ever before. Each aircraft will be fitted with the latest aviation and safety technology, including single engine performance and a greater range, night vision technology and a larger working space for the medical crew in the rear of the aircraft. The facilities on board enable lifesaving operations and major medical interventions to be carried out immediately.

A bigger and better aero-medical service is great news for our region.

The commencement of this new and enhanced service is not only a reflection of the crew’s outstanding professionalism, but it is a reflection of our community spirit.

The SouthCare Trust is grateful to our sponsorship and naming rights partner of 15 years, Snowy Hydro Ltd, and to all our sponsors, donors, volunteers and supporters who have helped the service reach this milestone.

Few charities fully achieve their mission. The SouthCare Trust has, thanks to so many people over so many years. Take a bow Canberra and our regional NSW community!

Cabramurra staying open There are changes taking place in Australia’s highest town, but Cabramurra is not closing, and there are no plans to close it.

The town, including the local businesses comprising the general store and coffee shop, are and will remain open to the public and the town remains a key operational site for Snowy Hydro.

The Cabramurra township was established in 1954, during construction of the Snowy Scheme.

At that time, it housed up to 2,000 people. Since then, it has continued to play an important role for Snowy Hydro, with a rich and vibrant history which we are immensely proud of.

Today Cabramurra remains a key operational base for Snowy Hydro. During normal operations there are around 40-50 Snowy Hydro staff and contractors located there. At peak upgrade times, there can be 100 staff based there.

More than 12 months ago, we implemented ‘drive in,drive out’ arrangements for our staff which means there will no longer be any permanent residents in the town from January 2018.

Only four staff are yet to transition to the new arrangements.

Over time, Snowy Hydro has recognised that its ability to retain staff and attract personnel to Cabramurra has been significantly curtailed due to its remote location and lack of access to services for its residents.

To enhance the operational effectiveness of Cabramurra and the wellbeing of employees and their families we feel the new arrangements are more appropriate.

This initiative has enabled Snowy Hydro to better attract personnel to the region as it is no longer a requirement that employees permanently reside in Cabramurra. Importantly, it best supports the wellbeing of staff and their families who are now able to access the full range of services available in other regional communities across the Snowy Mountains and beyond, including medical and social services, shops, sporting clubs, social facilities etc.

Snowy Hydro has allowed two years for the transition to the new arrangements, which will be complete by January 2018.

Snowy Hydro supports, and encourages community involvement in, the long term future of Cabramurra.

KH<D <EBF;BG@(:;L>BEBG@(<:OBG@ ;HNE=>KBG@( :EIBG> P:EDL

6452 0313

to ask about placing an ad on our website

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Burnima

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H I S T O R I C H O M E S T E A D B O M B A L A

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It’s Spring and Burnima is open for Homestead and Garden Tours.

Individuals and Groups welcome.

For Bookings Contact Steve (02) 6458 3042 or contact@burnima.com.au

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NEW iOS APP DESIGNED TO

Test Your Tired Self

Transport for NSW have launched a road safety app for motorists in a bid to save more lives on NSW roads from the second biggest killer - fatigue.

The Test Your Tired Self app, developed as part of the NSW Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to drive down the road toll towards zero, allows drivers to test themselves and make informed decisions about their levels of tiredness before getting behind the wheel.

NSW Centre for Road Safety Executive Director Bernard Carlon said fatigue could be as dangerous as drink driving and called on drivers to consider the effect road crashes have on families and loved ones in the community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In 2016, 82 people were killed in fatigue-related crashes on NSW roads, accounting for 21 per cent of the road toll,â&#x20AC;? Mr Carlon said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the metropolitan areas of NSW we saw an increase from 15 in 2015 to 18 fatalities in 2016 while in the rest of NSW, fatigue-related crashes increased from 40 fatalities in 2015 to 64 in 2016. This represents a total 49 per cent increase in the number of people killed in fatigue-related crashes in a year.â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;These crashes are happening in busy areas and roads that are close to the driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home, showing you can never assume youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be safe driving on a familiar road. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The message is simple: ensure youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re well rested from a good nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sleep before driving and if you feel tired behind the wheel, even on a short trip, stop and rest so you stay safe on the road for your loved ones and all other road users. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We need every single road user to take personal responsibility and make safer choices on and around our roads. I encourage you to download the free app today and help us to drive the road toll towards zero.â&#x20AC;?

The app provides motorists with a range of tools and tips to prevent or reduce fatigue, such as pulling over at rest stops, sharing the driving and staying hydrated.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the second app to be developed by the NSW Centre for Road Safety, following the release of the Speed Advisor app in 2014.

The Test Your Tired Self app can be downloaded for free from the Apple store from today at https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/testyour-tired-self/id1186509498?mt=8 For more information about the Centre for Road Safetyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work follow them on Facebook at NSW Road Safety or visit: www.roadsafety.transport.nsw.gov.au/

Award Winning Rainbow Pines Tourist Caravan Park sits on the shores of beautiful Lake Eucumbene with the breathtaking Snowy Mountains as its backrdrop.

You can relax on the verandah of our deluxe cabin or sit under a tree in our camping sites and feed the wild birds or catch a gilmpse of a wallaby or echidna.

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Lucas Road Old Adaminaby, NSW 2629 1

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Thredbo packed autumn program of fun In Autumn the mountains are bursting with a kaleidoscope of colour, the air has a cheeky nip and there is so much to do. Thredbo has a big autumn line-up of fun that includes events, activities, festivals and adventures.

March • 17 – 19 March | MTB Interschool’s This year Thredbo is celebrating 20 years of hosting Interschool’s. There is a thrilling line up of racing, competition and fun for school age mountain bike riders.

April • 1 – 2 April | Redass State Round MTB Hosted by Rocky Trail Entertainment this is a laidback and supportive approach to racing. With both a State Downhill and State Rollercoaster event being held across the weekend and a discipline to suit everyone, it is going to be fun.

•8 – 22 April| School Holidays Adventure Festival This April school holidays the Thredbo Family Adventure Festival will keep the kids busy with a top mix of activities, adventures and entertainment. The kids can climb peaks, jump on a bike, play disc golf, bounce in a tramp session, clown around with the BMX Bandit, go on an mountain adventure and much more.

•16 April | Golden $10,000 Easter Egg Hunt Thredbo are giving visitors 10,000 reasons to visit this Easter with an adventure festival plus a Golden Easter Egg Hunt with a whopping $10,000 cash up for grabs. Thredbo’s Golden Easter Egg Hunt will happen on the mountain with six eggs, representing the cash. There will be a jackpot egg worth $5,000 and five other golden eggs worth $1000 each. With six opportunities to take home to cash you should head to Thredbo to search for the eggs to make your Easter extra $pecial.

•22 April | High Country Wine and Cheese Festival Foodies head to the hills April 2017 as Thredbo hosts the High Country Wine and Cheese Festival. Enjoy a weekend of wine and cheese plus join in on Australia’s only Cheese Rolling competition. The weekend includes entertainment, information sessions and a village wide progressive food tour featuring the culinary delights of local restaurants and cafes.

•28th – 30th | Jazz Festival The Thredbo Jazz Festival is a three-day celebration of all things Jazz music. The Jazz Festival program will feature a number of bands seen in a variety of separate venues including bars, cosy restaurants, and the top of the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift and the Thredbo Village Square, taking the jazz lover on a musical journey.

38 Ryan Street, Talbingo $195,000 2 Self Contained Units 3 bed 2 bath 1 Car

Adelong Antique Fair

Hunt for your very own treasures at this year’s Antique Fair in Adelong.

The fair has been brought forward to March this year and will feature some special attractions.

Doors open at 9am for the auction so come along and have a browse. You might find something you really want!

Formal auction begins at 11am.

Market and entertainments in the street from 11am. There will be plenty of entertainment for the entire family with markets stalls, buskers and children’s entertainment.

The fair will be officially opened by Col Galloway from the Kapooka Army Base outside Wagga.

He will be accompanied by the Kapooka band which will give a recital at the opening and then play during the afternoon.

Kapooka will also have a recruitment stand at the fair, for those wishing to make a career choice.

Local school students have been asked to dress up as miners for the day and they will compete for prizes fo the best costume.

Tumut Rodeo action in April

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There will be lots for the children to enjoy including egg and spoon races, ‘Find the Gold” competition and much more.

The fair will also feature local brewers, warming up for the Batlow Cider Fest and conference in May. Local businesses have been very generous in donating items for the chocolate wheel and raffles.

Plan your trip to include this wonderful main street fair in Adelong.

Stallholder applications open, sites from $35

TALBINGO

NORTHERN GATEWAY TO THE SNOWY MOUNTAINS Mountain Lake Cottage for all year round accommodation

The Tumut Rodeo will be held on April 22.

Bucking bulls and award-winning saddle broncs will be on show as well as tagged bareback broncs and barrel racing and a whole lot more.

24 Groves Street, Talbingo $69,000 Vacant Land Great Block

All the action will be replayed on the big screen.

Gates open at 8am with the action starting at 2pm so come along and check out what’s happening at the rodeo!

You’ll be glad you did.

27 Pether Street, Talbingo $189,000 Comfortable Living 3 Bed 1 Bath 1 Car

Three bedroom home

Sleeps up to six

All modern conveniences A/C for summer, wood heating for winter For bookings contact Bruce & Lorraine Oliver Phone: 02 69495641 or Email: bljo@bigpond.com

18 Lampe Street, Talbingo $220,000 Sleep Ten 3 bed 2 bath 1 car

Bruce Oliver | Talbingo Representative | PRDnationwide Tumut 0427 300 617 | 02 6947 1722 | bljo@bigpond.com

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Australia’ s h Mountain ighest B i trail now king open Thredbo is home of epic alpine riding and this summer the expansion of trails continued with the completion of the exciting new Thredbo All-Mountain Trail, giving riders a true high alpine trail riding experience.

This combined with the existing trail network, revamped skills parks, an updated rental fleet and exciting events makes Thredbo Australia’s premier gravity mountain biking destination The new 10km All-Mountain Trail starts at the peak of Thredbo at the top of the Kosciuszko Chairlift and sends riders straight into the high alpine region.

Traversing across the ski slopes of the Central Spur area, the use of natural rock

Make sure you visit

slabs rewards riders with spectacular terrain and unparalleled views over village and down the Thredbo Valley.

As it descends its way into the subalpine region, the trail utilises the winter ski slopes and enters into thick forest featuring flowing switchbacks, smooth rollers, fast downhill sections and the odd short climb. Constructed by the trail building wizards at ‘Dirt Art’, it provides by far some of the best flowing single-track on offer in Australia.

With trails for all abilities and ages, a new fleet of bikes and lessons and programs to improve your skills, there is plenty to enjoy on two wheels in Thredbo this autumn.

Tee off at Australia’s

highest disc golf park

The best Fish & Chips in the Snowy Mountains

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PHONE ORDERS MOST WELCOME! Ph: 6456 2182

ICE CREAM AVAILABLE!

Shop 4, 1 Snowy River Ave, Jindabyne (Behind Nuggets Crossing)

This year get together and enjoy a round or two at the Thredbo Disc Golf Park, it’s a great new activity to enjoy all year round. The summer slopes of Friday Flat is home to the summer course, nestled between bushland, open fields and eucalypts there is a 9 basket 18 hole course to play. Come winter the course will be up and flying on the Thredbo Golf Course area.

Disc golf is one of the fastest growing and most accessible sports in the world it is fun for people of ages and abilities. It is played with similar rules to traditional golf, however Frisbees or discs are used instead of balls, with players throwing the disc from a tee area, then completing the hole by successfully putting their disc in to an elevated metal basket in the

least amount of throws possible.

The course layout was one that needed particular care – being located in a Kosciuszko National Park, the designers were sensitive to the environment and surrounds, utilising them to maximise the playing experience. Both courses feature 9 baskets with 18 unique tees positions, so players can enjoy the courses in different ways each time they play. Holes range from short technical pars 3 of 60m, through to long challenging par 4s over 200m in length.

Golf discs will be available in Thredbo Sports, there is an all-rounder disc for the fun recreational player or for the more experienced, similar to traditional golf, you can use variety of golf discs depending on the hole.

This summer tee off on Australia’s highest Disc Golf Park - with over 20 million players worldwide and around 6000 courses you won’t want to miss out on all the fun.

29

THEREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE...

Cooma Ex-Services Club is the largest club on the Monaro, one hour south of Canberra and located in the heart of Cooma, the gateway to the Snowy Mountains.

ENJOY WHAT WE HAVE TO OFFER, NEW LOOK, DELICIOUS FOOD, GREAT ATMOSPHERE, OPEN 7 DAYS! RAFFLES

Wednesday, Thursday & Friday

FACILITIES

Keno & TAB, ATM, Foxtel, FREE Wi-Fi

DINING

Lunch: 11:30am - 2pm Dinner: 5:30pm - 9pm $10 Lunchtime special (Monday - Friday)

Whether entertaining family or colleagues, catching a quick bite, stopping in before hitting the slopes or relaxing with the family, you will never be disappointed with our great facilities & customer service.

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9$/( 675((7 &220$ Â&#x2021; 6452 1144 www.coomaexservices.com.au

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Yarrangobilly Caves Kosciuszko National Park

Easter holiday tours:

14th – 17th April 2017 GUIDED CAVE TOURS 9:00am Variable – tour upon request (pre booked only) 1:00pm Jillabenan Cave 1:30pm North Glory OR Discover Geology 2:00pm Jillabenan Cave 3:00pm North Glory & Smugglers Passage 3:00pm Jersey Cave 3:00pm Jillabenan Cave (1 hr) (1 hr) (1 1/2 hrs) (1 1/2 hrs) (1 hr) 10:00am Jillabenan Cave 10:30am Jersey Cave 11:00am Jillabenan Cave 12:00pm Jersey Cave SELF GUIDED CAVE TOUR (1 hr) (1 1/2 hrs) (1 hr) (1 1/2 hrs) 9:00am to 4:30pm - South Glory Cave self-guided cave tour (last tickets sold 4:00pm) DISCOVERY TOURS Geology for kids & adults: 1.30pm on Sun 9th, Fri 14th, Mon 17th & Sun 23rd April (2 1/2 hrs) Every rock tells a story. Participate in a hands-on session with one of specialist geology guides, who will introduce you to some of the tricks and secrets geologists use to identify rocks, minerals and fossils. Then apply what you have learnt on a tour through the vast and varied North Glory Cave.

Harrie Wood Cave: 9am, 10am, 1:30pm & 2:30pm on Mon 17th April (1 1/2 hrs) Descend into this richly decorated 80m old tourist cave, now open after 11 years of cave research. You will be issued with a torch and your guide will explain how stalagmites, like trees, contain growth rings and can be viewed as archives of the past. View the Temple of the Thousand Idols, the heritage

cry ystal bucket and the climate change science monitoring equipment crystal equipment. (Ages 6 6yrs+.

Average fitness req’d.)

Castle Cave: 9am, 10.30am, 1:30pm & 3:00pm on Sat 8th, Sat 15th, & Sun 16th April (2 1/2 hrs) Those with a sense of adventure and looking for a special experience can accompany one of our dedicated and experienced guides to discover this magnificent cave. (Ages 6yrs+. Average fitness required; no crawling) Looking for something extra?

If there are no Discovery tours offered during your visit and you are particularly keen please contact us and we will see if we can accommodate your request.

Aboriginal Culture: 11am & 1pm - Dates TBC (1hr) The Wolgalu people have lived for thousands of years in the high country of Kosciuszko National Park. Join our Aboriginal Discovery Rangers on an educational and exciting range of demonstrations and hands on activities such as boomerang throwing and rope making, including traditional bush craft and Aboriginal cultural weaving and axe grinding demonstrations.

Eco-Tech Tour: 2pm on Fri 14th April (1 1/2 hrs) + by request .

Experience the inner workings of the Yarrangobilly Precinct on this behind the scenes tour which includes: 1938 hydro power generation, gas co-generation, Caves House restoration, chemical free sewage treatment, black water reuse and alpine grass nursery.

Thermal Pool: Open from dawn until dusk, 27°C all year round. The Yarrangobilly river runs adjacent to the thermal pool so grab your rod and throw in a line, go for a bushwalk or bring your family for a relaxing barbeque in the high country.

Places are limited. For bookings please call Yarrangobilly Caves Visitors Centre on (02) 6454 9597. Payment is non-refundable and is required at time of booking. To avoid disappointment please book prior to Thursday 13th April (Phone between 9am – 5pm).

Discover Yarrangobilly Caves BOOKINGS AND INFORMATION

YARRANGOBILLY CAVES CALL 02 6454 9597 CAVES HOUSE ACCOMMODATION CALL 1300 072 757 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISITWWW.NSWNATIONALPARKS.COM.AU

South Glory Cave, Jersey Cave and Jillabenan Cave Open 9am-4pm for regular guided and self-guided tours.

Additional Discovery Cave tours available during busy holiday periods and by prior appointment CAVES - WALKS - PICNIC AREAS - THERMAL POOL

31

Thredboâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s massive Easter Adventure Festival With a $10,000 Golden Easter Egg Hunt

Thredbo are giving visitors 10,000 reasons to visit this Easter with and adventure festival plus a Golden Easter Egg Hunt with a massive $10,000 cash up for grabs on Easter Sunday.

Thredboâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Golden Easter Egg Hunt will happen on the mountain with six eggs, representing the cash. There will be a jackpot egg worth $5000 and five other golden eggs worth $1,000 each.

With six opportunities to take home to cash you should head to Thredbo to search for the eggs to make your Easter extra $pecial.

All ages can scamper across the mountain in search of lucky cash wrapped golden eggs that contain chocolate and more importantly cash.

As usual there will also be the famous Giant Kids Easter Egg Hunt on Thredboâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Village Green, where over 5,000 chocolate eggs will be ready to be found.

The fun in Thredbo also continues right across the school holidays with the Thredbo Family Adventure Easter Festival, April 8-22, boasting a top mix of activities, adventures and entertainment. The kids can climb peaks, jump on a bike, play disc golf, bounce in a tramp session, clown around with the BMX Bandit, go on an mountain adventure and much more.

Combine this with a big line-up of good time inresort activities like the Bobsled, heated pool, waterslide, Mission Inflatable, pump track, golf, tennis and chairlift, the kids will have a blast.

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Canberra International Airport

Mt Gladstone lookout Snowy Mountains Airport

ADAMINABY visitadaminaby.com.au

KHANCOBAN 6076 9373

BERRIDALE www.snowyriver.nsw.gov. au

PERISHER perisher.com.au 1300 655 811

BOMBALA/DELEGATE www.snowyriver.nsw.gov. au

THREDBO thredbo.com.au 6459 4100

COOMA www.snowyriver.nsw.gov. au visitcooma.com.au

TUMBARUMBA visittumbashire.com.au 6948 3333

CORRYONG towong.vic.gov.au DALGETY www.snowyriver.nsw.gov. au JINDABYNE Snowy Region Visitors Centre environment.nsw.gov.au 6450 5600

TUMUT REGION visittumut.com.au 6947 7025 SNOWY MOUNTAINS snowymountains.com.au ROADS & RESCUE Emergency - 000 Cooma Police - 6452 0099 Jindabyne Police - 6456 2244 RTA Road Conditions - 132 701 LAOKO WILDLIFE RESCUE - 6456 1313

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33

In February the Krazy Kosci Klimb saw 21 people living with cerebral palsy reach the top of Australia, raising $340,000 as they went.

Raising money for the Cerebral Palsy Alliance, each participant and their teams collected donations individually with corporate sponsors also jumping on board to help with the fundraising.

This is the fourth year the Krazy Kosci Klimb has taken place and it gets bigger each time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The idea behind the Krazy Kosci Klimb is providing these people with the opportunity to climb the highest mountain in Australia â&#x20AC;&#x201C; something they never

thought they would be able to do,â&#x20AC;? says event manager Kathryn Stoneman. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There were tears at the finish line, especially from parents who were there to see their child achieve something. The experience has made such a difference to everyone involved. It shows them that they can still achieve incredible things and chase their dreams.â&#x20AC;?

The participants ranged in age from nine years old to 64. Each person had a support team with them consisting of their family and friends, and four staff members from their corporate sponsor. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the biggest things we heard back from the participants is how nice it was to be able to go away together as a family. For families who are experiencing cerebral palsy, going away can be quite difficult logistically.

The Krazy Kosci Klimb offers all the support they need to make the trip easy and comfortable, allowing them to concentrate on spending quality time together,â&#x20AC;? says Kathryn. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We had one young boy who came from Dubbo for the event. He had never

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met anyone else with the same condition, so it was wonderful to see him realise he is not alone.â&#x20AC;?

Kathryn says that by the end of the experience, everyone feels like family. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everyone keeps in touch and we organise reunions so that everyone can see each other again.â&#x20AC;?

Some local businesses that supported the climb included K7 Adventures who provide all the harnesses and other equipment for free. Red Communication Australia also provided $20,000 worth of radio equipment for the climb. The group stay overnight at the Sports and Recreation Centre, who go above and beyond to meet the needs of all the guests.

For more information krazykosciklimb.com.au.

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34

Tumbarumba time walks

Tumbarumba has a number of well preserved old buildings, such as the Court House and the Police Residence which were constructed in the 1880s, probably as a result of the discovery of gold in the area in 1855 which led to an influx of population.

Interpretive plaques with some background information on some of the buildings are placed at key points in the town. The Tumbarumba Historical Society has produced a small booklet on walks around Tumbarumba that relate to events, places and people of historical interest; including one on the history of the town buildings with a suggested route to follow around town. This booklet is available from the Tumbarumba Visitor Information Centre for $5.00 to cover the printing cost.

One of the walks features the Maginnity Monument, located on Maginnity’s Gap Road west of Tumbarumba.

On Friday 24 June 1864 Sergeant David Maginnity was murdered while homeward bound on an overnight patrol from Tumbarumba to Copabella Station. His companion

Constable Churchley told the story: ‘At the foot of some falling ground I saw a man riding a brown horse; I said to the deceased “Who is that?” He made a similar remark and cantered past me, and pulled up alongside this man. The instant the deceased did so this man pulled his hand from his jacket and fired.’

This man was bushranger Dan Morgan, often ‘Mad Dan’ for good reason. Morgan terrorised landowners or accepted sympathisers ‘boltholes’ throughout the Eastern Riverina.

Morgan was spotted riding the Sergeant’s horse; he had tracked the dying man placing the body beside the road where it was found by the postman next day.

Best time to see our

wildflowers

A week earlier Morgan had mortally wounded John McLean at Round Hill and even with £1000 reward on offer continued his rampage throughout the district, in the process murdering his chief pursuer, Sergeant Smyth.

Maginnity’s four children and pregnant wife, Mary were left to grieve. In time they thrived and today the Tumbarumba Museum, the Maginnity Monument and Walking Track recall difficult times.

Drop into the Tumbarumba Visitor Information Centre for directions to the Maginnity Monument and Walking Track.

Underground Spirits

The team

Dr Toby Angstmann The brainchild of our distillery. Specialising in Obstetrics and IVF, Toby utilises his vast medical and scientific knowledge to ensure medical grade quality and precision when making our spirits. Using the knowledge he obtained through his original degree in chemistry, he was able to identify molecular impurities that are in standard spirits (such as aldehydes eg: methanol, and sulphites) and develop a unique filtration system that eliminates these impurities to a level that is almost undetectable to even the most sensitive equipment. The result is a full strength (40% ABV) spirit that does not have the harsh bite (Russian bite that is commonly associated with spirits), while still providing an attractive taste that mixes well in cocktails or drunk straight.

Coupled with his incredible scientific knowledge, Toby also has great vision, ambition and initiative which has led to his dreams of opening a distillery coming true.

Jacob McMahon While Toby is the dreamer and brainchild of the production of the spirits, Jacob has helped turn it into a functioning business. With his background in the public service, he has developed an ability to meet all of the many challenges that opening a distillery inevitably presents. As the businessman of the distillery, Jacob ensures all of the paperwork is completed and that we maintain a professional standard that far exceeds any expectation.

Andrew Galbraith While completing a degree in Medical Science at the

ANU, Andrew has been working as a barman in some of Canberra’s most well recognised restaurants and is currently the bar manager at the hatted restaurant in Braddon. With 10 years of bar tending experience under his belt, Andrew is a predominant figure in the Canberra hospitality industry. With a naturally friendly and engaging personality, as well as good looks, he is a reliable asset who delivers our product from the distillery to the customer while maintaining strong relationships and customer satisfaction.

One of the newest distillery to open in our region is Underground Spirits, in Kambah.

The distillery is located in Kambah Village, Canberra. Opening hours available on the website for sales, tastings and to have a look at the distillery.

35

www.undergroundspirits.com.au

For sales enquiries, please call Andrew on 0431 038 802 2/66 Primmer Court, Kambah ACT 2902 Normal opening hours: 11am - 3pm Saturdays and Sundays Also open at other random hours or by appointment

What makes the product unique An innovative filtration system which implements medical grade filters is what enables them to produce the cleanest and smoothest spirits they have encountered to date. After distilling the alcohol and filtering sulphites and other impurities using copper filtration in our stills, a patented carbon filtration system (invented by Toby) filters to an unimaginably small pore size of 0.02 microns. Coupled with a technique of super cooling the liquid resulting in impurities forming crystals too large to fit through the filters, the resulting liquid is a simple combination of pure alcohol mixed with purified water produced via reverse osmosis.

Vision Underground Disstillery hopes to initially make as big a presence in the local hospitality industry as possible. They are planning to organise pop-up style events and run masterclasses to let the public know what makes them unique. Eventually they will expand across Australia and look to selling internationally as the demand and exposure increases.

The Range. (all $80ea) Signature Vodka.

The base spirit in which the filtration system is truly witnessed and appreciated. A vodka that even the most sceptical of spirit drinkers immediately fall in love with.

Signature Gin. Consisting of 10 botanicals (the most predominant being; coriander seed, angelica root, lemon myrtle, and of course juniper berries) this gin maintains a unique smoothness while delivering exceptional taste and freshness. Perfect for martinis or mixed with tonic.

Caramel Vodka.

While maintaining its full strength of 40% ABV, the caramel flavouring (derived from all natural and preservative free sugar cane) delivers a rich and smooth experience that must be tasted to be believed. A perfect ingredient to enhance a cocktail or simply had straight.

Vanilla Vodka.

As with the caramel, the vanilla fills the palate with rich and authentic vanilla bean while maintaining the 40% alcohol concentration.

Hazelnut Vodka.

Unlike other hazelnut flavoured alcoholic products nothing compares to the authentic and unmistakable flavour of pure hazelnut in this spirit. The lasting aroma of fresh hazelnuts makes it an irresistible drink that makes it difficult to stop at one.

Whisky.

We have just filled up our first barrel of whisky which will be legally whisky after maturing in the barrel after two years. Our barrels are French and American ex-shiraz barrels.

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I C S O K KIDS PAGE Kosci Kritter Kangaroos and wallabies What do they look like?

Kangaroos and wallabies are marsupials that belong to a small group of animals called macropods. They are only found naturally in Australia and Papua New Guinea. Most macropods have hind legs larger than their forelimbs, large hind feet, and long muscular tails which they use for balance. The word macropod actually means ‘big foot’. Kangaroos and wallabies are most active at night, dusk and dawn.

All kangaroos and wallabies have forward-opening pouches.

Other marsupials -wombats and koalas - have pouches that open backwards.

The kangaroo superfamily consists of two family groups.

Kangaroos, wallabies, pademelons and tree kangaroos make up one family, while rat-kangaroos, bettongs and potoroos make up the other. There are 45 species of kangaroos and wallabies.

Where do they live?

Kangaroos and wallabies live just about everywhere!

• Red kangaroos are found on the flat open plains.

• Grey kangaroos overlap the reds but prefer denser scrubs and forests.

• Wallaroos have an extensive range throughout the inland, but prefer rocky outcrops or stony ground.

• Rock-wallabies live among piles of boulders, rocky hills and cliffs.

• Tree-kangaroos (two species of which live in Australia) are found in the mountainous rainforests of north Queensland.

• Smaller species of wallabies and kangaroos live in a wide range of habitats, from desert to woodland to rainforest.

What do they eat?

Kangaroos and wallabies are herbivores, and mainly eat grass.

Some species will also consume leaves, herbs, ferns, fruit and flowering plants.

Threats Kangaroos and wallabies once roamed Australia practically undisturbed by predators, although no doubt the Tasmanian tiger and other carnivorous marsupials were a threat to their safety. The arrival of Aboriginal people between 40,000 and 60,000 years ago had an impact on kangaroos and wallabies, through hunting and through frequent burning of habitat vegetation. The dingo, which arrived about 3,500 years ago, became a major kangaroo predator.

However, the arrival of European settlers had the greatest effect on native animals, including kangaroos. European livestock compete with kangaroos for pasture, and introduced species such as foxes, cats and dogs prey on native fauna. Different bushfire patterns have also had a great impact on kangaroo habitat.

Two centuries ago there were 21 species of macropod in NSW, now there

COLOUR IN THE KANGAROO AND HER JOEY!

CAN YOU FIND ALL THE WORDS?

APRIL AUTUMN CHANGES COOLER FOGGY are only 15. The smallest species, and those with special habitat requirements and restricted ranges, have suffered the most, both from predators and from the destruction of their habitats. A number of species of kangaroo and wallaby are listed as threatened in NSW. Kangaroos and livestock Not all developments

GOLDEN LEAVES MARCH MAY ORANGE OR since the arrival of Europeans have been bad for kangaroos.

Numbers of some of the large species have increased greatly in parts of the inland since European settlement.

One possible reason for this is that bores and ground tanks have provided kangaroos with water in places that would previously have been uninhabitable.

Kangaroos usually do not stray more than 10-15 km from water.

Kangaroos are most numerous in the better-class rangelands, and are less common in very arid

RAIN RED SEASON SNOW WEATHER country.

As a general rule, kangaroos and sheep eat different plant species, so they are not often in direct competition if there is plenty of food. Kangaroos eat young green shoots high in protein - they are not as good as sheep are at eating and digesting dry grass or fibre. In dry periods, however, kangaroos can sometimes reduce the amount of feed available to livestock. Being more mobile than sheep, they can select the best vegetation in an area for themselves.

TEST TIME...

All answers are in the Kosci Kritters section...

What time of day are kangaroos and wallabies most active?

How many species of kangaroo and wallabies are there?

Where do rock-wallabies live?

What is the greatest threat to kangaroos?

37

Visitor Information Centres Want to know what’s on in the Snowy Monaro Region? Pop into one of our Visitor Information Centres that can be found throughout the region...

Snowy Region Visitor Centre

The Snowy Region Visitor Centre, in Jindabyne, is the ideal stop before entering Kosciuszko National Park.

It services around 200,000 visitors each year.

It’s a great place for visitors to get the best tips from locals, as well as brochures, maps and park entry passes before heading into Kosciuszko National Park.

Staff can help with accommodation in or around the park, advice on the best things to see and do while you’re in the Snowy Mountains, and the latest conditions or closures.

Visitors can also pick up a national parks pass that covers entry fees into Kosciuszko, as well as topographic maps and personal locator beacon hire. As part of the Think Before You Trek initiative, the centre also offers online Trip Intention Forms via an iPad so visitors can register their intention to travel to the national park.

Complimentary hire of the Trail Rider is also available at the centre. The Trail Rider offers new opportunities for people with mobility restrictions to experience parks for themselves, and with their family and friends.

For more info on the Trail Rider, visit: http://www. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/ access-friendly/trail-rider The visitor centre is a great

place to find out more about Kosciuszko National Park, local wildlife, the landscape, the history of the region and Jindabyne area and Aboriginal heritage.

There are also a number of regular activities that take place at the visitor centre including: • Art gallery with regular exhibitions – The art gallery offers monthly exhibitions of artists in the local region. The wares of the artists are also often available for sale in the visitor centre store. Entry to the exhibitions is free of charge.

• Monthly market – On the third Saturday of each month, the visitor centre hosts a local produce market which showcases and sells local food, drink, crafts and lifestyle wares from designers and producers in the local Snowy Mountains region.

• The Snowy Mountains Cinema – The Snowy Mountains Cinema is the perfect night out for visitors staying locally in Jindabyne.

The cinema seats 180 people and offers all the latest movie releases 7 days a

COOMA VisitorS Centre

Tourist officers Frances Redden and Katrin Hackney at CVC. If you’re wishing to immerse yourself in all Cooma and the Snowy Mountains has to offer, then the Cooma Visitors Centre (CVC) is your best starting point.

The friendly staff love fielding questions about the region, and even more passionately advise you on the attractions, and places you wish to visit. Their knowledge of the area is

first class, and all trips to the Snowy Monaro region should begin with a visit to the visitors centre.

You can find the visitors centre in the main street of Cooma, Sharp Street.

It stocks an array of brochures, maps, gifts and provides accurate travel and tourist information. The centre is open seven days a week between 9am-3pm.

week during peak season (June – October, Christmas and Easter holidays) and Tuesday, Friday – Sunday in off peak season.

• The Parc Café – Where visitors can refresh and recharge by grabbing a delicious coffee and something to eat, 7 days a week.

• Mount Kosciuszko informational video – For visitors to the centre there is also an intro to Mount Kosciuszko video which is played in the centre to help visitors become acquainted with the park before heading off on their park adventure.

Snowy Region Visitor Centre opening hours: 8:30am – 4:30pm – 7 days

a week.

Snowy Region Visitor Centre is located in Jindabyne, at the gateway to southern and alpine Kosciuszko National Park.

It is on the left after the Memorial Hall and before Nuggets Crossing shopping centre.

Winter or summer, Kosciuszko National Park spoils you with snow sports and mountain biking, camping or cave tours, hiking, history and horse riding, amongst Australia’s high alpine scenery.

For more information: http://www.nationalparks. nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/ parks/kosciuszko-nationalpark

BOMBALA VisitorS Centre

The Bombala Visitor Information Centre and Lavender House, running since 2003, was spruced up last year with a new building at the Railway Park location.

The old centre building is now a museum full of historical items, including old equipment from the agricultural and timber industries, and many significant newspaper clippings and photographs.

One of the rooms has been fitted with period furniture to show how it would have looked during the time that Mary MacKillop stayed in the building when it was a convent.

The new centre is now available for selling local products and tourist items, as well as providing tourist information to visitors to the town. It is considered the gateway to Bombala’s platypus country.

Pictured: Gail Nichols and Dave Nelson from Braidwood were one of the first to stop into the new Bombala Visitor Information Centre, where they were welcomed by Snowy Monaro Regional Council Economic Development and Tourism manager Karen Cash.

Inspiring your imagination

Snowprint Bookshop is a lovely country bookstore located in the beautiful Snowy Mountains.

We offer a great range of fiction and non fiction books as well as games, puzzles, greeting cards and gift vouchers.

A child who reads will be an adult who thinks.

Snow Paws is the children’s own bookstore. Come in and see the wonderful variety of books and educational toys Snow Paws has to offer.

OPEN 7 DAYS 10AM - 6PM Shop 5, 141 Snowy River Ave, Jindabyne NSW 2627

P: 6457 1115

www.snowprint.com.au

38

Mixed bag of FIshing

REMEMBER, YOU WILL NOT CATCH A FISH IF YOU DON’T HAVE A LINE IN THE WATER!

THE

LAKE LEVEL and TEMPERATURE The lake level was dropping very slightly with the hot windy weather!

The lake temperature today was 22 degrees C (on the surface).

TROLLING The boat trolling has been good with very good rainbow trout being caught and a few browns mixed in. You need to mix it up a bit and certainly trolling a little deeper is best.

Three colours of lead core line seams to be best early. In the middle of the day we have been using downriggers.

Downrigger depth however has not been as deep as in previous years either with 45 feet to 65 feet about perfect.

Better trolling areas this month will be Hatchery Bay and Hayshed Bay and Sid’s Bay through to Rushes Bay. LAKE BAIT FISHING (Primarily most rivers and streams in the Snowy Mountains Region are fly and lure only, we recommend that you first check with the Department of Industry and Investment NSW (NSW Fishing rules) as to which rivers in the area you can legally bait fish in.

IF IN DOUBT DON’T BAIT FISH in the RIVERS!) Bait fishing should remain OK if you fish at first and last light.

Mudeyes used under a float or even worms under a float.

We also have some other artificials that look very much like a real mudeye check out these in our shop.

Best bait fishing areas Wollondibby Inlet, Rushes Bay and mouth of the Thredbo or The Snowy River Arm. Another great area is the bottom of Discovery Holiday Park near Widows Creek Inlet.

LAKE SPINNING Spinning lures in deeper water near rocky points will be good at first and last light.

Gillies feathertails, Celtas or Yellowing Tasmanian Devil Lures.

Try fishing the Wollondibby Inlet deeper water, Rushes Bay and it is always best to fish facing into the wind where the food is blown close to the edges.

This is where the trout will be cruising.

RIVER SPINNING Fish are still being caught in the Thredbo River and now the water is lower you can use the more traditional spinners and shallow diving minnows. Try some Gillies Feathertails or Vibrax Glow spinners very early and late in the day or some soft plastics like the Strike Tiger, olive pepper.

The Mowamba River is another option if you like to fish small streams but do not discount the alpine streams at this time of the year. The trout may be smaller and it may be mostly catch and release but the fish fight like hell.

FLY FISHING LAKE Try any of the streamer

patterns such as Mrs Simpson and Williamson’s Snowy Mountains Gold Fish. Olive green nymphs and shrimp patterns are also worth a try.

Allow the fly to sink before retrieving.

The South Arm, Creel Bay and Kangaroo Bay (if you have a boat) are all great for fishing at the moment.

FLY FISHING RIVERS AND STREAMS The Thredbo River water level is lower and clear now so make certain you are hidden from view when fishing as the trout can be spooky.

The Alpine streams are looking fantastic.

Plenty of small fish are being caught on dry fly in the Alpine streams.

Flies you must have are brown beetle patterns, white moth, Snowy Hopper, Stimulator, Royal Wulff and Parachute hoppers. Maybe a brown and a black nymph if the fish are not rising.

Steve Williamson Fishing Adventures

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WE SELL IT, WE WRITE IT, WE DESIGN IT Check it out on www.monaropost.com.au or contact us on (02) 6452 0313

39

Charlie Salvestro, Snowy Mountains Scheme worker – Cooma.

Ten years. ° Minus 15 C. Slept in a canvas tent.

That’s 110% Australian.

The Snowy Mountains Scheme was hailed as a Civil Engineering Wonder of the World. It achieved that title thanks to the grit of people like Charlie Salvestro, just 16 when he took the bus from Cooma to Guthega to ask for a job.

Over ten years he worked in often freezing temperatures and many miles from the nearest beer. Red Energy is an all-Australian company owned by Snowy Hydro so, like Charlie, giving 110% is in our blood. That’s why we think the people of the Snowy Region deserve fair prices, genuine discounts and local award winning customer service.

For 110% Australian Electricity & Gas call 131 806 or visit www.redenergy.com.au

40

KIDS SKI FREE

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Olympic Gold Medallist Torah Bright calls Thredbo home

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*Terms and conditions apply. Valid from 10 â&#x20AC;&#x201C;23 June 2017 and 28 August to season close. Visit thredbo.com.au for full T&Cs.